In my last blog post, I explained why Stuart lacks housing and what the implications of the housing shortage are. In my estimation, Stuart is not even building enough new housing to replace its existing stock. Without ample new housing coming on line, the needs of our community will not be met and will result in economic paralysis. This will minimize our future development as a dynamic cultural and business center. Without adequate population, Stuart will not be able to maintain existing services and viability.

There is a misconception that by adding housing to our existing residential neighborhoods, they will undergo a transformation that will affect the character of those neighborhoods. However, by using zoning overlays, the City can maintain residential neighborhoods with the traits that the residents deem most desirable. Stuart should look to increase housing in those areas that are not presently being utilized for primarily residential use. There are ideal main thoroughfares where we could have housing developed coupled with other economic uses.

For example, from the Roosevelt Bridge south to at least Kanner/Colorado could be one area of redevelopment. Both the Seacoast and the Bank of America buildings are ripe for mixed use development as is the Publix Shopping Center.  Another opportunity for both housing and mixed use development is along Colorado from Kanner Highway to Confusion Corner. The single story aging structures are either vacant or not used for their highest and best uses. That also includes the neighborhood to the east of Colorado. Ocean Avenue should also be explored as a corridor that should redevelop. The hospital, which owns more and more property for doctors’ offices, should begin looking at constructing buildings with medical offices on the first floor and housing for their nurses and other staff above.

Many people think that economic development means only bringing business to Stuart. Well businesses alone will not generate enough taxes to pay for the services that are consumed by the employees of those businesses. Without adequate housing, eventually the businesses will relocate outside of the City. For any city to be a vibrant center, there needs to be a balance between residents, business and entertainment. It has been proven over and over again that without the three legs of the stool, a city atrophies and eventually loses its purpose for being.

Stuart has to be a City that extends its housing for all groups. We cannot afford not to do so. Our goal must be to maintain and encourage a downtown that is appealing to the tourists but also attracts young families to make their homes there. We need workforce housing along with more apartments for the affluent. Stuart can have it all if we do not bury our heads in the sand and ignore what should be a bright tomorrow.